Indicators of Quality in Internet-based Distance Education: An Empirical Investigation of Faculty Perceptions at Two-year Colleges

Author

Deborah A. Halik, Indiana State University

Date of Award

Spring 5-1-2005

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Department

Educational Leadership

First Advisor

Joshua Powers

Second Advisor

Delores Haklin

Third Advisor

Steve Gruenert

Abstract

may exist between the presence and importance perceptions of faculty. Lastly, the study tested for differences between full and part-time faculty perceptions on the importance of quality indicators. Data was collected using a survey instrument developed by the Institute for Higher Education Policy (IHEP). The population of interest for this study was full-time and part-time Internet-based distance education faculty from two-year community colleges in the Midwest. Descriptive results were presented as well as t-test analyses investigating the differences of interest described above. The study found that when comparing Internet-based distance education faculty perceptions of quality indicators in Internet-based distance education, there is a significant difference in the perception of presence and importance of faculty support, evaluation/assessment, a documented technology plan, a reliable technology delivery system, student involvement, students' expectations and hands-on training and information for students securing material through electronic databases, interlibrary loans, government archives, news services, and other sources. The faculty perception of importance was higher than the perception of presence in all cases. IV In addition, the findings determined that when comparing part-time and full-time Internet-based distance education faculty at two-year colleges, there was a significant difference between part-time faculty perceptions and full-time faculty perceptions of the importance of student support. The part-time faculty showed higher perceived importance of student support. The results of this study can help formulate strategies and policies that may enhance the development and delivery of Internet-based distance education and promote the use of technology in two-year institutions.

Recommended Citation

Halik, Deborah A., "Indicators of Quality in Internet-based Distance Education: An Empirical Investigation of Faculty Perceptions at Two-year Colleges" (2005). All-Inclusive List of Electronic Theses and Dissertations. 3381.
https://scholars.indianastate.edu/etds/3381